Khe Rong Temple

20/12/2024 29 0
Narration

Khe Rồng Temple (also known as Đức Ông Temple) is a unique historical and cultural relic located in Vĩnh Long 1 neighborhood, Bến Sung Town, Như Thanh District, Thanh Hóa Province. The temple is surrounded by majestic natural landscapes, creating a peaceful and sacred atmosphere. The relic is named Khe Rồng because it is situated on the banks of a river called Khe Rồng.

Images: Outside the Khe Rồng Temple Relic Complex

According to legend, Khe Rồng is a place where spiritual energy converges, associated with many mysterious stories about the deities who protect this land. Khe Rồng Temple is dedicated to the Mẫu Tam Phủ (Three Palaces) belief, which includes Đệ nhất Phủ Liễu Hạnh, Đệ nhị Phủ Thượng Ngàn, and Đệ tam Phủ Thủy Tinh. Additionally, the temple also honors the deity Đức Ông. Historical records indicate that during the final years of the resistance against the Ming invaders, under the plan of Nguyễn Chích, Bình Định King Lê Lợi advanced into Nghệ An to set up a base before heading north to defeat the Ming forces. Unfortunately, during the march, one of his generals fell ill and died here. The resistance troops, under the direct command of King Lê Lợi, then achieved major victories. After the country was freed from foreign invaders, the king commemorated those who contributed greatly to his victory by establishing the temple to honor Đức Ông.

Currently, the temple consists of a three-room structure with two side wings, curved roofs decorated with dragon motifs, and other architectural features such as the Tam Quan gate and Long Khê Pagoda. The Đức Ông Khe Rồng Festival is held on the 1st of January and the 1st of March in the lunar calendar. This is the occasion for the procession of Đức Ông’s spirit tablet to the main temple. It is not only a time for people to show their respect but also to pray for favorable weather, bountiful harvests, and a peaceful, prosperous life. Particularly, on the full moon and the 1st day of each month, local people often come to the temple to offer incense and pray for peace and harmony in their families.

The architecture of Khe Rồng Temple is deeply traditional, with intricate decorative motifs harmoniously integrated with the surrounding natural scenery. It is not only an important spiritual site but also a place that preserves the cultural and historical values of Như Thanh.

Khe Rồng Temple is a meaningful tourist destination, attracting visitors from near and far who wish to learn about the culture, history, and explore the beauty of Thanh Hóa. The relic complex was recognized as a provincial historical and cultural site on January 25, 1995, under Decision No. 220/VHQĐ.

Some images inside the relic complex:

Images: Collected

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